Foxrock Planning Permission Refused – Irish Times
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Foxrock Housing Estate Refused Planning Permission due to Low Density
Table of Contents
What Happened?
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has refused planning permission for a 21-home housing estate in Foxrock, Dublin. The proposal involved demolishing an existing vacant house, known as The Grove, and constructing 14 duplex units and seven houses on the 0.59-hectare (1.48-acre) site.
Why Was Permission Refused?
The primary reason for refusal was the proposed development’s low density. The council deemed the density insufficient for the location, reflecting a broader push for increased housing supply and efficient land use in the Dublin area.
The Property: The Grove
The Grove, a late-1960s bungalow with a footprint of 205 sq m, was considered “of little or no architectural merit.” It was purchased in late 2023 for €2.875 million, after initially being offered for €3.25 million in 2022 and later reduced to a guide price of €2.25 million.
Context: Foxrock Land Sales & Development Trends
This refusal occurs within a larger context of increased land sales in Foxrock during 2023. Several large houses where sold with the intention of developing compact housing schemes on their grounds. This suggests a trend of developers seeking to capitalize on land values in desirable Dublin suburbs.
Density Requirements in Dún laoghaire-Rathdown
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has been actively promoting higher-density residential developments to address the housing crisis. Specific density targets vary depending on location and zoning regulations, but the council generally favors developments that maximize the use of available land.
| Zoning Category | Minimum Net Density (units/hectare) |
|---|---|
| Residential Zone A | 30 |
| Residential Zone B | 20 |
| Residential Zone C | 15 |
Note: These are example figures and may not reflect the exact zoning for Mart Lane. Consult the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Development Plan for precise details.
What Does This Mean for Future Developments?
This decision signals a clear message to developers: proposals must meet the council’s density requirements to be approved. It’s likely that the developer will either revise the plans to increase density, potentially by adding more units or building higher, or appeal the decision.
who is Affected?
- The Developer: Faces delays and potential redesign costs.
- Potential Homebuyers: Reduced housing supply in a desirable area.
- Local Residents: Impact on the character of the neighborhood, potential traffic increases.
- Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council: Pressure to meet housing targets.
Timeline
- 2022: The Grove initially listed for sale at €3.25 million.
- Late 2023: The Grove sold for €2.875 million.